Persistent Red Circles on the Chest: Causes and Treatments

Red circular rings appear on the chest?

Hello Doctor: Last January, I noticed a series of red circles on my chest.
They are not itchy and there doesn't seem to be any scaling.
I didn't pay much attention at first, but as the circles increased in number and expanded, I visited a dermatology clinic in July.
The doctor suspected a fungal infection, and I took oral antifungal medication for a week and applied topical ointment.
I felt it had improved, so I stopped using the medication, but it never completely resolved.
This year, I noticed that the red circles seem to have multiplied and expanded again.
Is it possible for a fungal infection to last this long without causing itchiness? What could be the underlying cause? We have a dog at home, but no one else in the family has any issues.
Is there a connection to the lesions on my chest? Thank you.

AAA, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/13

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

A fungal infection is possible because your treatment duration was insufficient due to your discontinuation of medication.
It is recommended that you return to your original physician for a follow-up.

Reply Date: 2017/01/13

More Info

Persistent red circles on the chest can be concerning, especially when they change in size or number over time. Based on your description, it seems that you have been dealing with this issue for quite some time, and it is understandable that you are seeking clarity on the potential causes and treatments.

Firstly, it is important to note that while fungal infections can cause red, ring-like lesions on the skin, they are not the only possible cause. The fact that you have been treated with antifungal medication and topical treatments without complete resolution suggests that there may be other underlying factors at play. Fungal infections, such as tinea corporis (ringworm), can sometimes present as red circles, but they typically come with itching, scaling, or other symptoms. The absence of itching and scaling in your case raises the possibility of other dermatological conditions.

Some potential causes for persistent red circles on the chest include:
1. Eczema or Dermatitis: Conditions like atopic dermatitis or contact dermatitis can lead to red, inflamed patches on the skin. These may not always be itchy, especially if they are chronic.

2. Psoriasis: This autoimmune condition can cause red, scaly patches on the skin. While psoriasis often has a characteristic appearance, it can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions.

3. Granuloma Annulare: This is a benign skin condition that can present as ring-shaped lesions. It is often asymptomatic and can resolve on its own, but it may persist for a long time.

4. Nummular Eczema: This type of eczema appears as round, coin-shaped patches of irritated skin. It can be chronic and may not always be itchy.

5. Infections: While you have been treated for a fungal infection, other types of infections, such as bacterial or viral infections, could also cause similar symptoms.

6. Allergic Reactions: Allergies to certain substances, including pet dander (considering you have a dog), can manifest as skin reactions. However, it is less common for these reactions to present as persistent circles without other symptoms.

Given that you have noticed an increase in the number and size of these circles, it is advisable to follow up with a dermatologist for a thorough evaluation. A dermatologist can perform a physical examination and may recommend additional tests, such as a skin scraping, biopsy, or patch testing, to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

In terms of treatment, it will depend on the underlying cause identified by your dermatologist. If it is indeed a fungal infection, a longer course of antifungal treatment may be necessary. For conditions like eczema or psoriasis, topical corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed. If an allergic reaction is suspected, avoiding the allergen and using antihistamines or topical treatments may help.

In conclusion, while fungal infections can cause persistent red circles, the lack of itching and the chronic nature of your symptoms suggest that other dermatological conditions may be involved. It is essential to seek professional medical advice to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Your health and well-being are paramount, and addressing this issue with a healthcare professional will provide you with the best path forward.

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